Kukla's Korner Hockey

Also discussed were the proposed rule changes, including the controversial hybrid-icing rule.

Several players have spoken out against it already, including New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur, but the NHLPA must choose to approve or disapprove by the start of the season.

Bettman said that executive vice president and director of hockey operations Colin Campbell polled general managers over the weekend to gauge their feelings on the rule.

"While some raised some issues and questions, I still think the vast majority still favor hybrid icing," Bettman said.

Bettman acknowledged that there was some discussions about the projected salary cap for next season, though he declined to elaborate further.

"It's really too preliminary to share because while we've gotten some estimates and revenues from clubs, they haven't been vetted yet," Bettman said. "It would really be too early to tell. I think we'll have a much better idea when the board reconvenes in December."